If you are a leader in business and have not kept up to date with psychology and neuroscience news, I am about to give you the update that will support you in allowing team members to step up into leadership, communicate clearer, and understand that change and discomfort can sometimes be good.
Neuroplasticity is the concept that as humans and ideas change – so does our neuroanatomy. New neural pathways can be formed when things are repeated enough. Just like building muscles through good fitness habits, so too we bring about a healthy mind.
So what is a healthy mind in the context of leadership? I define it as someone who can be both self-autonomous within community. They honor their self-expression and understand the goals of the community, or in most cases – company culture.
Without neuroplasticity we would not be able to shift, grow, and change mindsets and get out of our comfort zones.
So, how does neuroplasticity help you and bring magic to your team, company, and projects?
Clarity on Goals and Mission
Knowing this forces you to get super clear on why you are in business, creating, or facilitating a project. Without clarity you will not be able to communicate effectively to your team members. Consistently communicating this vision and mission gets your team inspired and motivated because you are influencing their environment.
Safe Space to Grow
Human beings love being a little challenged and to connect with a bigger vision than themselves (see #1). When you as a leader facilitate a safe space to ask questions, challenge notions, and be seen as a contributing member of the team it is the perfect space for them to be seen, witnessed, and shift out of their comfort zone. This allows for neuroplasticity.
Increase Productivity
Make yourself accessible for open conversation and bringing up the mission and vision again and again. Allow your team members to take initiative and give them space to thrive after sharing your vision throughout your project/business timeline.
Isabelle Rizo is a singularity storytelling consultant, artist, and lecturer who has been named one of the “Top 7 Entrepreneur Advisors.” She brings together technology, digital media, and storytelling for brands that change paradigms. An artist and teacher to her core when not working she focuses on developing mixed-media artwork that inspires conversation on perspective and polarities. You can connect with her at isabellerizo.com.
